Monsoon: Avoid Street Food During Monsoon, Advise Doctors

As the monsoon season sets in, doctors are advising the public, especially students preparing for competitive exams, to avoid consuming street food. The high humidity and fluctuating temperatures during this season create an ideal environment for the growth of various bacteria and pathogens, leading to food and water contamination.

Historical Context

Historically, the monsoon season in India has been associated with an increase in waterborne and foodborne diseases. The heavy rains often lead to waterlogging and poor sanitation, which in turn contribute to the spread of infections. This has been a recurring issue, with numerous instances of outbreaks reported over the years. For example, in the village of Mugaon Tanda in Maharashtra, 93 residents recently fell ill after drinking contaminated water from a well, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with the monsoon season.

Health Risks and Precautions

Doctors are particularly concerned about the consumption of street food during this period. Street food vendors often operate under unhygienic conditions, and the food is susceptible to contamination by flies and other insects. Common health issues reported during the monsoon include gastroenteritis, diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting, and nausea. Additionally, many people suffer from cold, cough, sore throat, and viral fever due to the changing weather.

Dr. Dhananjay Das, Deputy Superintendent of Capital Hospital, emphasizes the importance of maintaining hygiene, avoiding street food, and drinking boiled water to prevent gastrointestinal problems. Dr. Manoranjan Mallik, a general physician, adds that the digestive system becomes slower during the monsoon, leading to issues like bloating, acidity, gas, and indigestion. He advises eating freshly cooked healthy food and drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated, while avoiding junk, spicy, and unhygienic food.

Summary

• Historical Context: Monsoon season in India has historically been linked to increased waterborne and foodborne diseases.
• Recent Incidents: 93 residents in Mugaon Tanda, Maharashtra, fell ill due to contaminated water.
• Health Risks: Common issues include gastroenteritis, diarrhea, dysentery, vomiting, nausea, cold, cough, sore throat, and viral fever.
• Doctor’s Advice: Maintain hygiene, avoid street food, drink boiled water, and consume freshly cooked healthy food.
• Digestive Concerns: The digestive system slows down during the monsoon, leading to bloating, acidity, gas, and indigestion.

By following these guidelines, students can safeguard their health and focus better on their exam preparations during the monsoon season.